Local artists are being invited to decorate mini "libraries" that will be installed across the city.

People can submit proposals with their decorating ideas for a book depository, officially called a Little Free Library.

Thousands of the small containers are popping up in neighbourhoods across North America inviting passersby to take a book, leave a book.

Readers can rummage through the books and take what interests them, then either return the book when they're done reading it, or replace it with another.

"Through the program millions of books are exchanged worldwide each year, significantly increasing access to books for readers of all ages," said Sara Munroe, the city's arts and culture co-ordinator.

There are currently six registered Little Free Libraries in Brantford. Munroe said the plan is to install 10 new book boxes, two in each city ward, on municipally owned property.

"We are excited to work with local artists - whether you are an established artist or you create in your spare time," said Munroe.

"Our hope is that these Little Free Libraries will inspire the love of reading, provide opportunities to learn and meet someone new, and encourage appreciation for public art in Brantford."

Last year, the Brant Skills Centre received a grant from the Brant Community Foundation to build and install the libraries. Artist fees will be funded by the city from its public art reserve fund.

"The Little Free Libraries will generate opportunities for people to access literature, which they may not otherwise have encountered," said Lori Bruner, executive director of the Brant Skills Centre.

A jury will select 10 artists through a process involving a visual proposal and written statement. The award is $475 for each library.

Proposals must be submitted by Sunday, June 11, at 4 p.m. in person to the Brantford Visitor and Tourism Centre at 399 Wayne Gretzky Pkwy. Proposals must include the submission form, written proposal and visual proposal.

More information about the call for artists, including a copy of the submission form, is at http://bit.ly/LFL2017 or culture@brantford.ca.